Royal Mail parcel boxes
PIP boxes (pricing in proportion) are a great solution to minimise the costs your business incurs from shipping orders via Royal Mail. By adhering to defined sizes, these boxes allow your business to take advantage of specific pricing bands.
The framework still allows you to select from varying designs, sizes, and options, including standard cases (0201), die-cut boxes (0427), and panel wraps. You can also select from various optional inserts, material colours and finishes, and printing.
GWP Packaging designs and manufactures bespoke PIP boxes. Our expert designers ensure that you get a perfectly sized carton that can reduce your costs and provide the optimum level of protection during transit.
Benefits of PIP boxes
By working with GWP to create your Royal Mail parcel boxes, you can expect:
Royal Mail box sizes
| PIP Size | Max Length | Max Width | Max Depth | Max Weight | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Letter | 240 mm | 165 mm | 5mm | 0.1 Kg | £1.70 / £0.87 |
| Large Letter | 353 mm | 250 mm | 25 mm | 0.75 Kg | 0.10 Kg = £3.15 / £1.55 0.25 Kg = £3.60 / £2.00 0.50 Kg = £3.60 / £2.40 0.75 Kg = £3.60 / £2.70 |
| Small Parcel | 450 mm | 350 mm | 160 mm | 2 Kg | 02 Kg = £4.99 / £3.90 |
| Medium Parcel | 610 mm | 460 mm | 460 mm | 20 Kg | 02 Kg = £7.19 / £6.29
10 Kg = £8.99 / £7.89 20 Kg = £13.69 / £11.89 |
| Large Parcel | > 610 mm OR | > 460 mm OR | > 460 mm | 30 Kg |
FAQs
What does PIP stand for?
PIP stands for “pricing in proportion.” This relates to the defined sizes set out by Royal Mail in 2013, which determine the maximum sizes and weights of letters and parcels for specific pricing bands. These are split into what have become known as small letter, large letter, small parcel, medium parcel, and, finally, large parcel.
What material is used for PIP boxes?
A single flute corrugated (cardboard) material is typically used to maximise the available space within the box or packaging and minimise weight. However, the specific grade (E flute / B flute / etc.) will depend on how heavy the item within is and what levels of protection are required. GWP can advise on the most suitable material for your specific application.
Can PIP boxes be customised?
As GWP Packaging designs and manufactures all PIP boxes to your specific requirements, you can customise them in a number of ways. This includes the material type (e.g., white or kraft finish) and a wide range of one, two, or full-colour printing types.
What is the largest size PIP box?
Royal Mail categorises any boxes exceeding 610, 460, or 460 mm (length x width x depth) as large parcels. Please note, however, that this category has a weight limit of 30 kg. If you frequently ship larger or heavier parcels than this, using a courier with bespoke-sized boxes (tailored to your items) is typically more cost-effective.
Should I use standard or custom-size postal packaging?
If you are a start-up or only process very low volumes of orders, stock-sized products such as those found from distributors and online shops are likely more cost-effective. However, if your business sends mid to high volumes of orders, then using bespoke packaging could reduce your costs significantly.
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We use recycled, recylable and FSC-certified material alongside sustainable and commercially effective designs.
